There Are Competing Priorities in Every Business.

By: <cite>Fast Company</cite> StaffWed Dec 19, 2007 at 8:25 AM

A clear, simple strategy helps ensure that the best choices are made.

Called Out
Why do we call it customer service? If a company rewards its reps for getting callers off the phone fast, the likely result is frustration at both ends of the line.
Take It Back
Mattel prides itself on the quality of its products, but the massive recalls of Chinese-made toys illustrate the risks faced by companies caught between maintaining safety and cutting costs.
Not Snowbound
FedEx has a Purple Promise award for employees who keep its promise that packages will "absolutely, positively" arrive overnight, no matter the weather.
Stats vs. Abs
Oakland Athletics general manager Billy Beane guides his scouts' decisions by stressing stats over physique. It's the Moneyball way. One example: the beefy but effective Joe Blanton.